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Boil Water Advisory Update #4 -Joint Public Service Announcement: Boil Water Advisory Lifted

John Malloy
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Boil Water Advisory Update #4 -Joint Public Service Announcement: Boil Water Advisory Lifted

Collingwood, ON [15 December 2025] – The amended Boil Water Advisory (BWA) issued on December 13 2025 has been lifted as of noon by the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit for the impacted areas mainly in the eastern and southern parts of the Town of Collingwood (shown in the linked map), including Hwy 26 East and surrounding areas east of the Pretty River and properties between Poplar Side Road and Tracey Lane/Findlay Drive. Laboratory test results have confirmed that the water is free from contamination and is safe to drink. Any facilities that were closed due to the advisory can now reopen after taking the necessary precautions.

Residents and businesses in the eastern and southern parts of Collingwood as shown on the map and list of affected streets should take the following steps before using their water:

  • Run all cold faucets for a minimum of five minutes. If the water does not run clear after five minutes, contact the Town of Collingwood at 705-445-1030.
  • Run drinking water fountains for a minimum of five minutes.
  • Run all water softeners through a regeneration cycle.
  • Replace pre-filters and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for reverse osmosis units.
  • Replace water filters, as they are disposable and may be contaminated. This applies especially to carbon filters and others that are near the end of their life.
  • Drain and refill hot water heaters set below 45°C (113°F). Normal setting is 60°C (140°F).
  • Drain and flush all ice-making machines and soda fountain machines.
  • Flush, clean and sanitize appliances with water line connections (e.g., fridges with water and ice dispensers), following the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Dispose of any ice made since Friday, Dec. 12, 2025.
  • Large-volume users (for example, restaurants) may need to run cold water taps for a longer period of time on first use to ensure the water is not cloudy.

Note: Please consult the manufacturer or owner’s manual for detailed instructions on how to flush and disinfect ice or soda fountain machines and how to restart water treatment devices.

For more information, visit smdhu.org.

Tips to Keep Kids and Dogs Safe this Holiday Season | Doggone Crazy

John Malloy
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Tips to Keep Kids and Dogs Safe this Holiday Season | Doggone Crazy

Hey Collingwood friends, it’s time for some tips to keep kids and dogs safe this holiday season.

The holidays are very stressful for dogs and accidents can happen when dogs get overwhelmed (in fact there are more bites to kids by family dogs at this time of year than any other).

Here’s the most important tip: Teach your kids to stand like a tree:

1) stop

2) fold your branches (hands folded in front)

3) watch your roots grow (look at feet)

4) count your breaths in and out until the dog goes away

Doggone-Crazy-Board-Game
Doggone Crazy

Learn this and more the fun way with the Doggone Crazy board game from https://doggonecrazy.ca/doggone-crazy-boardgame/. Makes a great gift from grandparents! Created by two Collingwood residents. Made in Canada!

$10 from each game will be donated to the mobile soup kitchen.

Order by December 17th for home delivery in Ontario and by December 24th for pick up in Collingwood.

It’s my brother’s favourite game. Whenever people come up to the cottage the first thing he does is get out the Doggone Crazy! and makes everyone play it. Kate – Age 10

🐾🐾🐾 

Doggone Crazy! is the first board game in a long time to keep my kids attention…they played the game so much that I wasn’t allowed to touch the game for review until the week-end was over. Alyice Edrich, The Dabbling Mum – National Parenting Magazine

One of my clients credits your lesson in standing like a tree for saving her young child from a mauling when 2 aggressive dogs escaped from next door and circled the child, barking and growling. Kerry Vinson, Canine Behavior Consultant – Ontario, Canada

I Wanted To Escape But I Realized The Only Thing I Have Is Now

John Malloy
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I Wanted To Escape But I Realized The Only Thing I Have Is Now

Do you ever wish you could just walk out into the woods or mountains and never come back?

That you could leave this society behind and find freedom elsewhere on your own terms? That if you just had enough money, or resources, or ingenuity, you could leave it all behind and ride off into the sunset and never look back? I did. And I realized it’s a myth. There is no escape. The only thing I have and ever will have is now. Goobie and Doobie

Snow Shoveling Strategies and Advice for Seniors & Former Olympians

John Malloy
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Snow Shoveling Strategies and Advice for Seniors & Former Olympians

Hey, boys and girls – you’re not an Olympian anymore, the last thing you want is a YAK YAK!!!, or an injury to keep you away from playing Pball, etc…

Shoveling snow can be a strenuous activity that poses risks like back strain, falls, and heart strain—especially for seniors. Experts recommend prioritizing safety, using proper techniques, and considering alternatives like hiring help if you have health concerns.

Key Advice Specifically for Seniors

  • Consult a doctor first: If you have heart issues, high blood pressure, or are over 65, get clearance before shoveling. The American Heart Association notes that cold weather plus exertion can increase heart risks.
  • Consider alternatives: Many sources strongly suggest hiring professional snow removal, asking neighbors/family, or using community programs for seniors. It’s often safer than risking injury.
  • Shovel early and often: Clear snow in small amounts (e.g., every 2 inches) rather than waiting for deep accumulation, as fresh snow is lighter.
  • Take frequent breaks: Rest every 15-20 minutes, stay hydrated, and stop if you feel pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness.
  • Dress properly: Wear layers, waterproof non-slip boots, gloves, and a hat to stay warm and prevent slips.

  • Shovel Early & Often:
  • During a big storm, shovel frequently rather than waiting until snow is deep Bloomingdale
  • Fresh, light snow is much easier to move than heavy, wet, or packed snow
  • A shovel full of snow can weigh up to 15 pounds depending on how wet it is Talk-early-talk-often

General Safe Shoveling Techniques to Avoid Injury

Warm Up First:

  • A quick 5- or 10-minute warm-up routine can increase blood flow and prepare your body Life Protect 24/7
  • Walk or march in place to warm up your body for 5-10 minutes Talk-early-talk-often
  • Stretch arms, legs, and back before starting

Dress Appropriately:

  • Layering helps maintain body heat at the start and allows you to remove layers to prevent overheating Caretelbrighton
  • Wear waterproof boots with good traction to guard against falls on slick snow or hidden ice Talk-early-talk-often
  • Cover your head, face, and hands
  • Choose the right tool: Use an ergonomic shovel with a curved or adjustable handle to reduce bending. Lightweight plastic blades are easier than heavy metal ones.
  • Push instead of lift: Whenever possible, push snow aside like plowing rather than lifting it—this greatly reduces back and heart strain.
  • Proper lifting form: If lifting, bend at the knees (not the waist), keep the shovel close to your body, grip hands 12 inches apart for leverage, and avoid twisting—step to turn instead.
  • Warm up and pace yourself: Stretch arms, legs, and back first. Shovel small loads and take layers off deep snow gradually.
  • Avoid heavy wet snow: It’s much heavier and riskier; wait or get help if possible.

Examples of ergonomic shovels:

Diagrams of proper technique (push and lift methods):


I’m Feeling Stuck In A Way Of Life That Doesn’t Make Sense to Me. You’re Thoughts…

John Malloy
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I’m Feeling Stuck In A Way Of Life That Doesn’t Make Sense to Me. You’re Thoughts…

Why are things the way they are? It seems like life could be different. It seems like we could choose a different way of living. Goobie and Doobie

Bottled Water Distribution Stations | Boil Water Advisory Update #2

John Malloy
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Bottled Water Distribution Stations | Boil Water Advisory Update #2

Collingwood, ON [13 December 2025] – In response to the Boil Water Advisory issued yesterday (December 12) following a watermain break in the area of Hume Street and Pretty River Parkway, the Town of Collingwood has established the Bottled Water Distribution Stations for residents in need and those who are unable to boil water.

Central Park Arena (85 Patterson Street) from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

➡️ Enter from Paterson Street
📦 Pick up from the loading zone in front of the arena
⬅️ Exit onto Lorne Avenue

Royal Canadian Legion (490 Ontario Street) from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

➡️ Enter from Ontario Street
📦 Pick up behind the Legion
⬅️ Exit onto Erie Street

*Pylons and signage will be in place to guide vehicles.

Limit: One case per person, per household (while supplies last).

We would like to sincerely thank Ice River Springs for generously donating the first truckload of bottled water.

Thank you for your patience and cooperation as we continue to work through this situation. Updates will be shared as they become available.

For updates follow these channels: Town of Collingwood website at www.collingwood.ca, @towncollingwood on Facebook and X, @townofcollingwood on Instagram, in addition to local radio stations and media websites. 

Update Regarding Town of Collingwood Water Main Break

John Malloy
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Update Regarding Town of Collingwood Water Main Break

The Town of The Blue Mountains Water Division would like to provide residents with an update regarding the major water main break and Boil Water Order currently in effect in the Town of Collingwood. 

Immediately after receiving notice of Collingwood’s water main break, Water Operators from the Town of The Blue Mountains took measures to stop the flow of drinking water from Collingwood into The Blue Mountains’ water system. The Blue Mountains’ Water Division would like to assure residents that the Town’s water supply remains safe and secure. 

Town under Boil Water Advisory

John Malloy
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Town under Boil Water Advisory

Collingwood, ON [12 December 2025] – Further to the Temporary Service Disruption Notice issued this afternoon regarding a major water main break, please be advised the Town is now under a BOIL WATER ADVISORY.

This is a cautionary direction from the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit. Residents and businesses should not consume water directly from the tap.

Please refer to the Health Unit Website for details:
https://www.simcoemuskokahealth.org/Topics/SafeWater/Drinking-water-advisories

The Town is required to take water samples once the watermain break has been repaired. These samples will be tested for bacteria and harmful organisms and only when the water quality is acceptable will the boil water advisory be lifted. The advisory could be in place for approximately 5 days.

Please continue to reduce water usage immediately to help conserve supply.

Please also avoid Pretty River Parkway and Hume Street intersection, where the watermain break occured and repairs are taking place.

An update will be issued as soon as it is available.

Legendary Media Officer Passes the Torch at Southern Georgian Bay OPP

John Malloy
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Legendary Media Officer Passes the Torch at Southern Georgian Bay OPP

(MIDLAND, PENETANGUISHENE, TOWNSHIPS OF TAY, TINY AND GEORGIAN BAY) – (MIDLAND, PENETANGUISHENE, TOWNSHIPS OF TAY, TINY AND GEORGIAN BAY) – The Southern Georgian Bay Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police announces that Provincial Constable David Hobson, a well-known and respected media spokesperson, will be passing the torch to fellow officers who will carry forward his legacy of public engagement.

For many years, Dave has been the trusted voice of the OPP in communities including Midland, Penetanguishene, Tiny, Tay, and Georgian Bay Townships, ensuring that our municipalities remained informed and engaged. His dedication to transparency and open communication has strengthened trust between police and the community. Dave was always willing to put anything aside to fulfill his media duties, demonstrating his commitment to public safety and information sharing.

Dave began his policing career in 1985 and retired in 2015, he later served with the Anishinabek Police Service before returning to Southern Georgian Bay OPP as a part-time media officer. Beyond his policing role, Dave has been deeply involved in community initiatives, including serving as a longtime member of the Georgian Bay General Hospital Foundation, leading the Safe and Sober Awareness Committee, and earning MADD Simcoe County’s Outstanding Policing Award for his efforts in the fight against impaired driving in 2024.

OPP Superintendent Todd Pittman, who worked closely with Dave, shared:

“Provincial Constable Dave Hobson has been an outstanding ambassador for the OPP and the communities we serve. His professionalism, integrity, and passion for public safety have set the standard for what it means to be a media officer. We are grateful for his years of dedication and wish him all the best as he moves into this next chapter. Dave Hobson has given not only years of dedicated service but also has an enduring spirit of generosity and community. Always available, always willing, Dave has been a steady and trusted voice for public safety – both within the OPP and beyond. His commitment to integrity, compassion, and community service truly exemplifies what it is to be a Provincial Constable. I would like to thank him for continuing to lead by example, reminding us of what it means to serve with heart.”

As Dave moves into new responsibilities at detachment and enjoys more time on his farm with family, the OPP extends sincere gratitude for his decades of service, leadership, and unwavering dedication to community safety.

Thank you, Dave, for your outstanding contributions to the OPP and the communities of Southern Georgian Bay.

The Hidden Language of Trees: How Forests Secretly Communicate | Full Documentary

John Malloy
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The Hidden Language of Trees: How Forests Secretly Communicate | Full Documentary

What if trees could talk — and listen?

Intelligent Trees takes you deep into the hidden world of forest communication, revealing how trees interact, support each other, and even protect their offspring. Inspired by the groundbreaking work of forester Peter Wohlleben and forest ecologist Suzanne Simard, this eye-opening documentary explores the complex social lives of trees.

Using stunning cinematography and scientific insights, it uncovers how trees form networks, share nutrients, warn each other of danger, and thrive as communities — not as individuals.

➡ Fascinated by wildlife? Hit subscribe and join our wild adventure! 🦁 New nature discoveries every week : https://tinyurl.com/FreeHighQualityDo…

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